Defiance in Bastogne: the famous "Nuts!" exclamation

In December 1944, Hitler launched a massive surprise offensive through the Ardennes mountains in the east of Belgium, aiming to split Allied forces and seize the port of Antwerp. The attack caught the Allies off guard, creating a bulge in their lines—hence the name Battle of the Bulge. Bastogne, a strategically critical crossroads town in the area, became a focal point of the German assault. By December 21, the town was surrounded by armored Wehrmacht units, and its defenders, the 101st U.S. Airborne Division and other troops, were cut off without adequate supplies or reinforcements. 

On December 22, German forces, confident in their position, sent a delegation to deliver a surrender ultimatum to the American commander in Bastogne, Brigadier General Anthony McAuliffe. The message promised “total annihilation” if the Americans did not surrender. McAuliffe, upon reading the note, reportedly laughed and exclaimed, “Nuts!”. His staff suggested that this succinct response be his official reply to the Germans. 

Defending Bastogne 

The single-word response was delivered to the German delegation, who were baffled and sought clarification. The Americans explained that it meant, essentially, “Go to hell!”. The rejection of the German demand motivated the besieged troops, boosting their morale at a critical moment. 

Despite dire conditions—freezing temperatures, dwindling supplies, and relentless German attacks—the defenders of Bastogne held their ground. On December 26, General George Patton’s Third U.S. Army broke through the German lines and conquered the town. The “Nuts!” reply became an enduring symbol of American grit and defiance, immortalizing the bravery of those who fought in Bastogne. 

General Anthony McAuliffe 

Anthony Clement McAuliffe was born on July 2, 1898, in Washington, D.C. A graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point in 1918, McAuliffe served in a variety of artillery assignments before the Second World War. His military career was steady, though unremarkable, until the war brought him into the spotlight. 

In 1944, McAuliffe was the acting division commander of the 101st Airborne Division during the Battle of the Bulge (16 December 1944 to 25 January 1945). His leadership during the siege of Bastogne not only exemplified his strategic acumen but also his ability to inspire resilience under what seemed to be insurmountable odds. The “Nuts!” reply summarizes his wit and determination, qualities that earned him admiration among his men. 

After the war, McAuliffe continued to serve in the U.S. Army, rising to the rank of lieutenant general before retiring in 1956. Though his career encompassed numerous achievements, he is best remembered for his role at Bastogne. McAuliffe passed away in 1975 and was buried in the Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia, U.S.A. 

The Bastogne War Rooms 

The Bastogne War Rooms, a newly opened museum, offers an immersive look into the December 1944 siege of Bastogne. Visitors step into key moments of the encirclement, from command decisions to the everyday struggles of soldiers and civilians. Highlights include a recreation of General McAuliffe’s command post, where the iconic "Nuts!" reply was made. 

Focusing on storytelling and personal experiences, the Bastogne War Rooms complement the other museums in the city in Wallonia, providing a fresh perspective on one of World War II's key moments. This compact yet powerful exhibition is a must-visit for anyone exploring the history of the Battle of the Bulge. 

On the occasion of the 80-year anniversary of the siege, the Bastogne War Museum celebrates the Nuts Weekend from 13 to 15 December 2024.